BALLOONS added colour to the touchline where friends of murdered teenager Ross Davidson gathered to play football in his memory.

Raising money for a memorial bench in his name, a crowd cheered as his pals battled it out.

The pink balloons were attached to messages from his friends and were released into the sky.

Ross, who worked for Ashington-based Gun Point, where he travelled the region pointing walls, was found dead in his flat in Grace Street, Byker, after being beaten with planks of wood.

But friends now want to remember the happy times they shared with the popular youngster.

Close pal James Graham, 19, of Byker, who helped organise the event, said: “Today was really about remembering Ross. It’s a happy day to help raise money for a memorial to him.

“The two teams are mates and they’ve each paid £5 to play, which will go into the fund. Everyone has chipped in, the guy from the corner shop even donated drinks. We’re hoping to raise £400.”

Another close mate. Chris Glendenning, 20, added: “We used to love having a good laugh. Today is a happy day to remember all the good times.

“I’m in a band which Ross liked and he was due to come and watch us for the first time the other week. The next gig we have is going to be in his memory.”

Touching cards with a picture of Ross were also handed out to remember the former Walker Technical College student.

Devastated staff at Gun Point also showed their support by doubling the money raised by his workmates.

“All the lads had a collection to raise money for Ross,” said Fiona Robertson, Ross’s boss.

“We told them whatever they donated the company would double, so we have already raised £1,000 just from that. Every year we take the lads out and this year Ross wanted to go to the dogs.

“That’s exactly what we’re going to do – we’re even going to get one of the races to be named after him.

“He was an amazing young lad. We were going to put him forward for team leader training.”

People old and young gathered in Walker Park to show their support.

Best mate Scott Robinson said: “Ross would have loved this, it’s exactly the kind of thing he would do. We want to raise cash to give to his mum to help with funeral costs.”

Three men have appeared in court charged with murder. Graeme Duncan, 22, of Norbury Grove, Steven Gilbert, 22, of St Anthony’s Road, and Kenneth Power, 22, of Dunstanburgh Road, all Newcastle, entered no pleas. A trial is expected in November.